Backyard Fires: Oak Lawn vs Tinley Park
How do backyard fires rules compare between Oak Lawn, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Tinley Park has fewer restrictions than Oak Lawn.
Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Oak Lawn strictly regulates backyard fires. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Recreational fires in approved containers are allowed only with propane/natural gas or clean dry wood, must be at least 25 feet from structures, attended at all times, and extinguished by 11:00 PM.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Tinley Park at single-family homes subject to International Fire Code limits. Fires must be in an approved container, under 3 feet by 2 feet, 25 feet from structures, burn only clean seasoned wood, and be constantly attended. Open burning of yard waste or trash is prohibited.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oak Lawn | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Open Burning | Prohibited | - |
| Fire Pit Setback | 25 ft (15 ft UL-listed) | - |
| Fuel | Clean wood or gas only | - |
| Curfew | Extinguished by 11 PM | - |
| Fine Range | $250–$1,500 | - |
| Allowed | - | Recreational wood fires only |
| Size Limit | - | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft tall |
| Clearance | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Attendance | - | Constantly attended |
| Contact | - | (708) 444-5300 Fire Dept |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Oak Lawn IL?
No. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Yard waste must be bagged for Village collection.
How far must a fire pit be from my house in Oak Lawn?
At least 25 feet from structures, fences, and combustibles — or 15 feet for UL-listed manufactured units under IFC 307.
When do backyard fires have to be out in Oak Lawn?
Recreational fires must be fully extinguished by 11:00 PM and attended by an adult at all times while burning.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in Tinley Park IL?
Yes, recreational wood fires are allowed at one- and two-family homes in approved containers, under size limits, with 25-foot clearance, and only using clean seasoned firewood.
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire in Tinley Park?
No permit is needed for a code-compliant recreational fire at a single-family home. Questions can be directed to the Fire Department at (708) 444-5300.
What can't I burn in a Tinley Park backyard?
Leaves, yard waste, trash, construction debris, and any refuse are prohibited. Only clean seasoned firewood may be burned, and smoke must not create a neighbor nuisance.
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